DuplexBuddy

HP Printer Double-Sided Printing - Models That Support Manual Duplex and How to Set Them Up

Understanding Manual Duplex Printing on HP Printers

If you own an HP printer without automatic duplex functionality, you're not alone. Many popular HP models don't include built-in two-sided printing capabilities, especially in the budget and mid-range categories. However, this doesn't mean you can't print double-sided documents - it just means you'll need to use manual duplex printing.

Manual duplex printing involves printing odd-numbered pages first, then reinserting those pages to print the even-numbered pages on the reverse side. While this sounds simple in theory, the process can be frustrating without proper guidance on page orientation and ordering.

HP Printer Models with Manual Duplex Support

Nearly all HP printers support manual duplex printing, even if they don't offer automatic duplex functionality. Here's a breakdown by series:

HP LaserJet Series

Models with Automatic Duplex:

  • HP LaserJet Pro M402dw
  • HP LaserJet Pro MFP M426fdw
  • HP LaserJet Pro M501dn
  • HP Color LaserJet Pro M452dw
  • HP Color LaserJet Pro MFP M477fdw

Models with Manual Duplex Only:

  • HP LaserJet Pro M15w
  • HP LaserJet Pro M118dw
  • HP LaserJet P1102w
  • HP LaserJet Pro CP1025nw
  • HP LaserJet 1020
  • HP LaserJet P1006
  • HP LaserJet P1505

HP DeskJet Series

Models with Automatic Duplex:

  • HP DeskJet 4155e
  • HP DeskJet Plus 4155
  • HP DeskJet 3755

Models with Manual Duplex Only:

  • HP DeskJet 1112
  • HP DeskJet 2130
  • HP DeskJet 2600 series
  • HP DeskJet 3630 series
  • HP DeskJet 1000 series

Setting Up Manual Duplex Printing

Windows Setup

  1. Open the document you want to print
  2. Select File > Print
  3. Choose your HP printer from the list
  4. Click on Printer Properties or Preferences
  5. Look for the Finishing tab or Features tab
  6. Find and check the box for Print on Both Sides (Manually)
  7. Select whether to flip on the long edge (for documents) or short edge (for landscape materials)
  8. Click OK and then Print
  9. Follow the on-screen instructions for reinserting paper

macOS Setup

This is where many users encounter problems, as HP's macOS support for manual duplex is often limited. This is where tools like DuplexBuddy become especially valuable.

Common Challenges

  • Confusing paper reorientation instructions
  • Limited software support, especially on macOS and Linux
  • Page ordering issues with multi-page documents
  • Inconsistent results between print jobs

How DuplexBuddy Helps

DuplexBuddy simplifies the manual duplex printing process by:

  • Creating a custom profile for your specific HP printer model
  • Handling all page ordering and orientation automatically
  • Providing clear, step-by-step instructions
  • Working consistently across all operating systems

Conclusion

While manual duplex printing on HP printers can be challenging, using the right tools and understanding your printer's specific requirements makes it much easier. Whether you're using a LaserJet, DeskJet, or OfficeJet printer, you can achieve professional double-sided printing without upgrading to a more expensive model.